Mandela ‘using machines to breathe’

ReutersA well-wisher wears a pendant bearing the image of Nelson Mandela during a vigil outside the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital where the iconic statesman is being treated in Pretoria.

Johannesburg - President Jacob Zuma has cancelled his scheduled trip to Mozambique, the Presidency said on Wednesday.

Zuma visited ailing former president Nelson Mandela in hospital at 10pm on Wednesday, and found him to be still in a critical condition, said spokesman Mac Maharaj.

“President Zuma was briefed by the doctors who are still doing everything they can to ensure his well-being.

“President Zuma has decided to cancel his visit to Maputo, Mozambique, tomorrow June 27, where he was due to attend a Southern African Development Community Summit regional infrastructure investment conference.”

Mandela, 94, was admitted to the Medi-Clinic Heart hospital in Pretoria on June 8 for a recurring lung infection.

On Wednesday night, a clan elder revealed that the anti-apartheid icon was on life support.

“Yes, he is using machines to breathe,” Napilisi Mandela told AFP after visiting Mandela. “It is bad, but what can we do.” - Sapa-AFP

Comment Guidelines

Has a comment offended you? Hover your mouse over the comment and wait until a small triangle appears on the right-hand side. Click triangle () and select "Flag as inappropriate". Our moderators will take action if need be.

Verified email addresses: All users on Independent Media news sites are now required to have a verified email address before being allowed to comment on articles. You are only required to verify your email address once to have full access to commenting on articles. For more information please read our comment guidelines